The first thing I see when I look out my window is my flag of the United States of America blowing in the breeze. Often, I will sit and gaze at the flag - great focus for thinking. These are my musings and ramblings, and, on occasion, rants... I am unapologetic in my support of our military, our country and my devotion to God. I will honor them and pay tribute to them here.
Along the side bar you will find tributes to Oregon's fallen warriors.

Thursday, March 22, 2007

Oregon has lost another of its sons, SFC John 'Scott" Stephens. Stephens died March 15 of wounds suffered when his patrol came under attack in Tikrit, Iraq. He served with the 1st Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kansas. He served as a medic and a trained others to be medics. He had served in Desert Storm and Desert Shield and multiple tours to Iraq in Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Known to family and friends as Scott, he was born in Prineville, Oregon and raised in La Grande, Oregon. In high school he was known for his sports - baseball, football, swim team - and his academic prowess. He often tutored his classmates. He continued his education in the Army and completed his master's degree in education two years ago. He planned to eventually become a teacher and a coach.

Typically, he was involved in teaching at the time of his death. He was part of a group training Iraqi soldiers. He was training the medics.

Scott loved sports - the Bengals and the Braves - hunting, fishing, trapping and enjoying the beauty of Eastern Oregon. He loved his country, and was known to tear up when he heard the National Anthem. And, he loved his family.

SFC Stephens is survived by his wife, Bea, and children, Brian, Cheryl and Darren; his parents, Gene and Jo Stephens of La Grande; a sister, Michelle Flowers of Hermiston; nephews, Tyler and Sean Flowers; grandmother, Gayle Stephens of La Grande; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

A memorial service was held at Fort Riley, Kansas today. The service and internment in La Grande, Oregon will be on March 26. The Patriot Guard Riders will be escorting SFC Stephens.

A message from his sister: i sat here and cried and cried because there are so many people out there that love our servicemen and women. it's good to know that people can make you feel good at a time like this because of their appreciation for what he did and what he stood for. i know in my heart that my brother loved what he did. he told me over and over again how much he loved it and it makes me feel better knowing that..... Michelle Stephens Flowers.

SFC John Scott Stephens gave his life for our country. We keep his family and friends in our prayers at this difficult time.

You were like a father to me, from day 1 you accepted me into your family and made me one of your sons. You taught me so much about life, the Army, and everything in between. I have so many great memories of you and I know one day we will meet again, and you would be a proud grandpa again, my wife gave birth on 21 March 07 to my first child, a beautiful girl named Audrey Frances and the same day I found out I was selected for SFC. So thank you for your steadfast leadership, your amazing personality, and your friendship. We all love you Scott!!

Some of the staff @ McWethy Troop Medical Clinic, FT Sam Houston just heard yesterday about SFC Stephens' ultimate sacrifice. He was the NCOIC of the clinic. Our prayers are with his familty and he will be greatly missed.

It has been six months since my brother, Scott was killed in Iraq. Not a day goes by that I don't think of him and thank him for all he did not only for me but for his country. He was truly a great man. Not only as a soldier but as a friend. I never realized how many peoples lives he touched. People I didn't even know. He will live on in our memories. michelle

Scott was my PSG at Riley for a while when I was a 1LT. I was holding the fort down with a shortage of NCO's and I really needed him but for monthes I kept hearing rumors he was coming but he never showed. I was told he was dragging his butt and didn't want to come down to the "line." Well I eventually found out that he had nothing to do with it. He was so good at what he did no one wanted to let him go. Once he came on the job for me, I felt obsolete. He was a great soldier and a wonderful NCO. He'll be missed.

SFC StephensMy Friend, My Hero, My Mentor, My Platoon Sargeant in 1-16 IN. I carried him close to my heart everyday while I was in Iraq and I carried the bulletin from the Memorial Service in Kansas inside my body Armour. I will never forget your sacrifice.I love you as a brother from one medic to anotherSSG Miller